Grange purchase discussed at Rome Twp. meeting

The Rome Township Board’s purchase of the Rome Grange building last year was again a topic of discussion between the board and members of the audience at Thursday’s meeting.

Members of the community have questioned the board’s decision in August to purchase the Rome Grange between Springville and Wilkerson highways for $6,000, money that some have said could have been better spent.

The purchase — which was approved last summer in a 3-2 vote — was also sharply contested for the same reason by trustee Betty Jo Halliwill, who died unexpectedly March 7.

It is estimated that two 1,000-gallon septic holding tanks would need to be installed to meet sanitary standards. Other repairs and upgrades that may need to be considered include electrical outlets, downspout and siding repairs, a new roof and, if the use of the building were to change, handicapped-accessible entrances and restrooms.

Estimates for the scope of the work have yet to be calculated. The township board will first seek bids on the installation of the holding tanks.

Residents questioned the board Thursday for not only purchasing the grange hall, but also for doing so before a dollar amount for repairs and upgrades had been finalized.

Trustee Harvey Warrick said the township has $79,000 in its building fund, set aside for such upgrades.

“I am confident we can do the upgrades for less than that,” Warrick said.

Maintenance is not the only cost the township will have. According to grange officials, the average cost to maintain the building for electricity, gas and insurance is $2,124.11 per year.

Residents June and Jeff Elwell said they were concerned that the public’s opposition to the township’s purchase somehow was tied to the clubs and organizations that use the building, including the grange and 4-H.

June Elwell also asked if the board would wait to proceed with repairs until all the cost estimates are in.

Probably not, Boggs responded, although the upgrades would likely be spread out over a two-year period.

Township resident Dave Hunt said he and other township residents would be willing to help with upgrades if it meant the township could save taxpayers’ money.

“I can’t do a lot but I am willing to help out,” Hunt said.

Warrick said the grange also has more parking and indoor restrooms, amenities the township hall lacks.

“The frosting on the cake is preserving a historical building,” Warrick said.

Matthew Zellen, who also expressed concern about the expenses connected to the grange hall, suggested the formation of a citizens’ board to gather information on work that needs to be done and present it to the board.

“It would be a checks and balance system,” he said.

Zellen added he was surprised that the sale price of $6,000 actually was increased to $6,300 to include closing costs.

Warrick defended the board’s stance on the matter, likening it to a car purchase, in that the sticker price does not always include taxes and other post-sale expenses.

Boggs promised the audience he would gather all the financial information being requested and have it available at future meetings.